After his thrilling victory in the Kentucky Derby, Mystik Dan will attempt to keep the Triple Crown dream alive with a start in the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course on May 18th.
Trainer Kenny McPeek has confirmed that Mystik Dan, the recent victor of the 150th Kentucky Derby, will participate in the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the iconic Triple Crown series. This announcement brings excitement and anticipation to the horse racing world, as Mystik Dan embarks on his journey toward a potential sweep of the Triple Crown.
The colt's triumph in the Kentucky Derby marked a historic moment, as it was only the tenth time in the race's illustrious history that the winner was determined by a nose. Mystik Dan's victory showcased his exceptional speed and determination, cementing his status as a formidable contender.
"Mystik Dan is well and acts like he'll be ready to run in the Preakness. I've discussed the decision with owners Lance Gasaway, Daniel Hamby, Brent Gasaway, and Scot Hamby, and we plan to run May 18th," McPeek stated in an official announcement.
McPeek has shared his satisfaction with Mystik Dan's progress since the Kentucky Derby, indicating that the colt has enjoyed a productive week of preparation. The team plans to transport Mystik Dan to Baltimore on Sunday ahead of the race.
Joining Mystik Dan in the Preakness Stakes is jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., who guided the colt to victory in the Kentucky Derby. McPeek expressed his confidence in Hernandez, acknowledging his crucial role in their past success.
McPeek's last Preakness Stakes victory came in 2020, when he piloted filly Swiss Skydiver to a memorable triumph. The trainer is hopeful that history will repeat itself with Mystik Dan in this year's edition of the race.
Mystik Dan's victory in the Kentucky Derby was a testament to his talent and determination. However, the colt faces a challenging task in his pursuit of a Triple Crown sweep. No horse has achieved this feat since Justify in 2018, trained by the legendary Bob Baffert.
The Preakness Stakes presents a unique set of challenges for horses, with its demanding track and unpredictable weather conditions. Mystik Dan must overcome these obstacles and maintain his winning form to keep his Triple Crown aspirations alive.
The horse racing community will be eagerly awaiting the Preakness Stakes, as Mystik Dan attempts to write his name into racing history. His performance in this prestigious event will shape the trajectory of his career and may potentially solidify his legacy as one of the greatest horses of all time.
As the countdown continues to the Preakness Stakes, fans and experts will closely monitor Mystik Dan's progress and speculate on his chances of success. The race promises to be an unforgettable moment in horse racing history, with Mystik Dan standing as a symbol of both the sport's allure and the pursuit of greatness.
